The Department of Economics, University of Jos (Unijos) was recognised as part of the Faculty of Social Sciences when the university was first established in 1971 under the headship of Dr. Moses Otigba of blessed memory. Its academic works started with 36 students in October of the same year. The department is one of the pioneering department in the faculty of Social Sciences, University of Jos.
The Economics Department, University of Jos has introduced a new fee of ₦30,000 for the econometrics lab, sparking dissatisfaction among students. Despite their concerns, the lab fee is crucial for equipping the facility, which provides hands-on experience in applying econometric techniques to real-world data.
The econometrics lab serves three primary purposes:
- Practical Application: Students apply theoretical concepts to real-world data, bridging the gap between theory and practice.
- Research Skills Development: Students design and implement research projects, honing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Career Preparation: The lab provides students with practical skills and experience, enhancing their employability and competitiveness in the job market.
While the fee may seem burdensome, it is essential for providing students with a well-equipped lab that fosters experiential learning and prepares them for successful careers in economics and related fields.
Albarka Tetu Gambo, President of the Economics Department, shed light on the rationale behind the introduction of the lab dues. “We do have a lab, but unfortunately, it’s not functioning,” he explained. “The dues were implemented to procure the necessary systems and equipment to get the lab up and running.” Gambo attributed the need for the dues to the government’s limited attention to the education sector. “Most students are understandably unhappy about the additional expense,” he acknowledged. “However, I must emphasize that the lab dues are essential for the department to provide quality education and practical training for our students.”
The recent introduction of econometrics dues in the Economics Department of the University of Jos has ignited widespread discontent among students. ‘It’s an additional burden we can’t afford,” lamented a 300-level student. “With the current economic situation in Nigeria, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to make ends meet, and this new fee is just another strain on our finances.”
She also questioned the necessity of the lab, pointing out that previous graduates had successfully completed the course without utilizing the facility. “If our seniors were able to pass the course without the lab, why are we being forced to pay for it?” she asked.
Nensemka Samuel Bagas, a 200-level student, offered a nuanced perspective on the issue. “We actually have a lab building, but it’s empty – there’s no equipment or systems to use,” she explained. According to Bagas, the introduction of the dues was intended to equip the lab, a move she supports. “I don’t have a problem with the dues itself, because we really need the lab to be so we can gain practical knowledge,” she said. However, Bagas emphasized that the students should have been informed about the dues earlier, allowing them to prepare financially.
Awaje Navonke Tagonze, a 400-level student, expressed frustration with the timing of the lab fees. “It’s unfair that we’re being charged for a lab that hasn’t even been set up yet,” he said. Tagonze, who is nearing graduation, feels particularly aggrieved. “I’m almost done with my program, and I won’t even get to benefit from the lab, but I still have to pay for it,” he lamented.
The controversy surrounding the econometrics lab dues at the University of Jos serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by students in Nigerian universities. As the country continues to grapple with economic uncertainty, it is crucial for educational institutions to prioritize the needs of their students. By striking a balance between providing quality education and managing costs, universities like Unijos can help shape the minds of future leaders and economists.
Reports and Photos by Ephraim Nenkipanmun
Edited by Israel Fakwagh Ciboh
